What Is a Soffit To Ridge Ventilation System, and Do You Need One?

If you’re considering repairing, replacing, or upgrading the roof on your Maryland home, you likely have stumbled across the hot topic of attic ventilation during your research. More and more homeowners like you are discovering just how important ventilation is, and the direct benefits it offers both your property and your wallet over time.

Let’s take a closer look, just to add a little extra clarity.

What’s Wrong with Gable-End Vents for Your Attic Space?

Gable vents, typically tucked up inside the peak on each side of your home, were the standard form of ventilation for quite some time. The system does work to a degree, primarily because it’s a point of escape for trapped air (that’s half the battle).

The issue is that there is no complete air exchange, just a trickle, and this can contribute to a host of issues.

In hot weather, like we’re beginning to experience now, these issues include:

Warped sheathing

Premature shingle decomposition

Hot, moist air in a confined space can lead to mold and mildew issues

Your home is harder to cool, leading to increased energy costs

In cold weather, the issues can be even more intense:

Trapped air can create moisture problems

The formation of ice dams are directly attributed to poor attic ventilation, causing moisture intrusion as water becomes trapped and backs up under the shingles

Insulation becomes damaged

Increased energy costs

Yikes... Thankfully, there’s a solution!

How Does a Soffit To Ridge Ventilation System Work?

Soffit vents allow fresh air to gain entrance under the eaves. Then, thanks to the natural thermal effect, the hot, trapped air in your attic rises. And, rather than struggle to find its way out of small gable vents, it pours out of your ridge vent that runs along the top of your roofline.

There’s no need for an electrical system to provide assistance either; science works its magic, pushing the air efficiently through your attic. This eliminates all of the issues listed above, and contributes directly to a happier, healthier, more efficient home. And, your roof will live to a ripe old age, as it should.

What’s not to love about that?

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